Title: Method for determining thermodynamic and molecular properties in the liquid phase

Abstract

A method for calculating the average molecular weight of individual molecules in a sample, where the molecules in solution associate to form clusters. Data sets of apparent molecular weight of the sample versus concentration of the sample in the solvent are generated. The basic principles and technology in generation of the data is the well understood action of a solute upon the solvent vapor pressure above the solution. By observing the effect of a sample solute on the temperature/vapor pressure properties of a solvent, it is possible by known methods to determine its molecular weight. When dealing with a solute material that tends to form clusters, however, the molecular weight found is an apparent molecular weight, i.e. the average molecular weight of all of the particles, which are the clusters and any unassociated molecules, if any. To determine the true molecular weight, a method employing the determined apparent molecular weights, referred to herein as the BRD method, is used. Since the method is based upon cluster thermodynamics and equilibrium properties, it reflects more accurately the behavior of the clusters at various dilutions. The method provides a basis for the prediction of thermodynamic and equilibrium properties, which was not possible withmore » previous methods. « less

Inventors:

Bunger, James W.; Russell, Christopher P.; Devineni, Prasad A. V.

Issue Date:

Tue Nov 12 00:00:00 EST 1996

Research Org.:

National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), Pittsburgh, PA, Morgantown, WV, and Albany, OR (United States)

Sponsoring Org.:

USDOE

OSTI Identifier:

1531420

Patent Number(s):

5574215

Application Number:

08/396,378

Assignee:

James W. Bunger & Associates, Inc. (Salt Lake City, UT)

Patent Classifications (CPCs):

G - PHYSICS G01 - MEASURING G01N - INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

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G - PHYSICS G01 - MEASURING G01N - INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

G01N25/00 - Investigating or analyzing materials by the use of thermal means
G01N33/28 - Oils {, i.e. hydrocarbon liquids}
G01N7/16 - by heating the material

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DOE Contract Number:  

AC21-93MC29240

Resource Type:

Patent

Resource Relation:

Patent File Date: 1995-02-28

Country of Publication:

United States

Language:

English

Subject:

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY